Computer Crime Charges | Douglas County Criminal Lawyer

Computer crime charges in Douglas County, Colorado can result when someone uses a computer or the internet unlawfully. These devices are almost constantly around us and always connected to the internet via 5G or WiFi. In the age of stay-at-home / safer-at-home guidelines, we’re using these items at an all-time high, increasing the possibility of cyber crime. Allegations of a computer crime in Colorado range in severity and require representation from a strategic criminal lawyer.

Douglas County Computer Crime Laws

Douglas County’s computer crime laws prohibit actions such as internet scams, hacking, and identity theft. C.R.S. 18-5.5-102 addresses the specific violations throughout Colorado. Someone commits a cyber crime in Castle Rock, Parker, or Highlands Ranch if they:

utilize a computer, network, or computer system without permission,
use a computer to commit fraud or theft,
access a computer, laptop, or smartphone using false pretenses or fake passwords,
alter, damage, or interrupt a computer, network, or system without authorization to do so,
create transmission of a program, software, information, code, or data to cause damage,
utilize an application to interfere with online ticket sales

This is an especially wide net that covers many different actions. Sometimes intentions behind these offenses are to damage a website or for financial gain. It is important to note that this doesn’t just apply to unlawful activity on PCs and desktops. Using a laptop, tablet, or smartphone for these purposes can also lead to criminal charges.

Are Most Computer Crimes a Misdemeanor or Felony in Colorado?

The answer here depends on the specific type of computer crime and value of damage, loss, or theft. Below is a breakdown of specific figures of misdemeanor computer crimes:

Value of Damage or Loss Caused	Offense
<$300	petty offense
$300 – $999	class 2 misdemeanor
$1,000 – $1,999	class 1 misdemeanor

Misdemeanor Computer Crimes in Colorado

Conviction in these scenarios can result in up to 18 months in county jail and as much as $5,000 in fines. However, as the figures grow, felony offenses apply:

Value of Damage or Loss Caused	Offense
$2,000 – $4,999	class 6 felony
$5,000 – $19,999	class 5 felony
$20,000 – $99,999	class 4 felony

Felony Computer Crimes in Colorado

Defendants in these situations face up to 6 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and as much as six-figure fines.

Douglas County Defense Attorney for Computer Crime Charges

Cyber crime laws come across particularly complex and it may be difficult to decipher what exactly lead to the charges. Consulting an experienced computer crime lawyer is the best course of action. Our attorneys have years of experience representing clients facing internet and computer offenses. We offer a free consultation, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans so that strategic representation is a reality for those facing accusations. Contact our office today to speak with a defense lawyer.